In a devastating incident, a plane carrying 181 people crashed at Muan International Airport in South Korea, resulting in the loss of 179 lives. The tragedy marks the nation's worst air disaster since 1993, when 66 people lost their lives in a similar crash.
According to fire authorities, the ill-fated Jeju Air flight 7C2216, en route from Bangkok, Thailand, attempted to land at around 9:03 a.m. local time. The aircraft, carrying 175 passengers including 173 South Koreans and two Thais, along with six crew members, encountered a possible bird strike that led to landing gear failure.
The first landing attempt was unsuccessful, prompting the pilot to circle and make a second attempt. However, the second landing resulted in a belly landing without the use of landing wheels. The plane skidded off the runway, struck the outer wall, and broke in half, igniting a fierce fire upon impact.
Rescue teams arrived promptly but could only recover the bodies of 179 victims by 8:38 p.m. local time. Tragically, only two crew members were rescued from the severely damaged wreckage.
The investigation into the crash suggests that the bird strike was a key factor in the aircraft's malfunction. As authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the disaster, the nation mourns the unprecedented loss of life.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
